Try these quick fixes to get your yard ready for outdoor parties

ST. GEORGE — When entertaining outdoors this summer, first impressions are everything and even neglected yards can be groomed quickly in a pinch.

In cases where time is short and appearance is important, focus on the areas where your guests will be mingling that will have the greatest visual impact.

Stock image, St. George News

The first task is to perform a walk-through of the yard, taking the same route guests will likely use, and take note of any problem areas or those that appear neglected, which will provide a glimpse of the view guests will likely see.

Then complete the following tasks that will provide the greatest visual impact before starting on the areas noted during the walk-through.

Begin with raking the yard and trimming perennials, making sure to remove any dead tops off the plants.

Removing any weeds present and edging the lawn around walkways and flower beds will provide a groomed, crisp edge to enhance the visual impact, with a touch-up of the area a day or two prior to the event.

Gardening image courtesy of Utah State University Extension, St. George News

Adding a 3-inch layer of mulch over the soil in flower beds and around shrubs will give the area a well-groomed look. Use small or mini bark nuggets in lieu of shredded or large bark pieces, which are less visually pleasing.

Once those tasks are completed and time permits, dust off any cobwebs and give the fence a good rinsing with a hose and prune any low-hanging branches, particularly those in the entry or areas where guests will be mingling.

“Don’t just cut back branches. Instead, cutting only the small branches growing downward on the underside of the main branch will preserve the tree’s natural form and beauty while providing clearance for taller guests.

Large container and hanging baskets hung on shepherd’s hooks that are already in bloom can add color quickly, instead of waiting for annual flowers to fill in and blossom, and can also direct foot traffic during the party.